The Weymouth man who received the world’s first successful transplant of a genetically-edited pig kidney has been discharged from Massachusetts General Hospital, calling it “one of the happiest moments of my life.”
Richard “Rick” Slayman, 62, who has been living with end-stage kidney disease, was the recipient of the groundbreaking pig kidney transplant last month.
Slayman was officially discharged from Massachusetts General Hospital on Wednesday, according to hospital officials.
“This moment — leaving the hospital today with one of the cleanest bills of health I’ve had in a long time — is one I wished would come for many years,” he said. “Now, it’s a reality and one of the happiest moments of my life.”
The Weymouth man will continue his recovery at home under the direction of: MGH nephrologist Win Williams; Medical Director for Kidney Transplantation Leonardo Riella; and Tatsuo Kawai, director of the Legorreta Center for Clinical Transplant Tolerance.
“I want to thank everyone at Massachusetts General Hospital who cared for me before and after my historic transplant, especially Dr. Williams, Dr. Riella, Dr. Kawai, and the countless nurses who looked after me every day of my stay,” Slayman said.
“The care I received was exceptional and I trust the physicians of the Mass General Brigham health system with my life,” he added.
Slayman is a system manager at the Department of Transportation, who has worked throughout his battle with diabetes and kidney failure.
He has had diabetes and hypertension for 30 years and received a human kidney transplant in 2018, which eventually failed.
“I’m excited to resume spending time with my family, friends, and loved ones free from the burden of dialysis that has affected my quality of life for many years,” Slayman said.
“Lastly, I want to thank anyone who has seen my story and sent well-wishes, especially patients waiting for a kidney transplant,” he added. “Today marks a new beginning not just for me, but for them, as well. My recovery is progressing smoothly and I ask for privacy at this time.”
